Growth Through Connections

In Fall 2016, the Imaginarium saw a need for DPS educators to build stronger authentic relationships with the learners in their classroom. In a partnership with Janus Henderson, the Imaginarium launched Growth through Connections, a program to increase student engagement and academic achievement by training and supporting teachers in developing culturally competent, strong, and healthy relationships with the students they teach.

 

Anchoring discussions and learning in Dr. Christopher Emdin’s book, For White Folks Who Teach In The Hood, Growth Through Connections helps educators build strong relationships with their students and provide them with engaging, culturally relevant learning experiences aligned to Colorado’s academic standards. Participants identify, unpack and address their biases and other barriers that prevent them from connecting with each student. Teachers then develop strategies to create rigorous, culturally relevant learning experiences that foster a love for learning. School leaders are also involved to ensure sustainability of practices.